Sea Kayak Instructor Courses
Paddle Canada Sea Kayak Instructor Courses with Kayak Ontario transform skill into mastery. Our nationally recognized programs train the next generation of kayak educators — instructors who teach with clarity, inclusivity, and respect for the water. We offer every Paddle Canada certification level available in classroom and field settings: Basic Instructor, Level 1 Instructor, Level 2 Instructor, and Rolling Instructor. Become a certified Paddle Canada Instructor and help others discover confidence on the water.
1. Basic Sea Kayak Instructor Entry-level certification for calm-water instruction
Paddle Canada Basic Sea Kayak Instructor certification qualifies you to introduce newcomers to kayaking in calm, controlled water. Learn to design engaging lessons, manage group safety, and foster confidence in first-time paddlers — the foundation of all future teaching certifications.
- Lesson design and sequencing
- Flat-water safety systems and risk management
- Demonstration-quality strokes and rescues
- Building inclusive and positive student experiences
Prerequisites: Paddle Canada Level 1 Skills or equivalent experience.
Outcome: Certification to teach Basic Sea Kayak Skills courses.
2. Level 1 Instructor Teach and evaluate Paddle Canada Level 1 Skills courses
Level 1 Instructor certification bridges classroom pedagogy and on-water coaching. It qualifies you to teach foundational strokes, rescues, and seamanship in open and coastal water environments.
- Instructional design and adult learning principles
- Skill analysis and feedback delivery
- Safety and rescue management in coastal water
- Environmental leadership and communication
Prerequisites: Paddle Canada Level 2 Skills and teaching experience.
Outcome: Certification to teach and evaluate Level 1 Skills courses.
3. Level 2 Instructor Advanced leadership and instructor development
The Paddle Canada Level 2 Instructor Course develops mastery in coaching, judgment, and group management in exposed coastal water with surf and wind. Candidates refine instructional presence and decision-making through immersive field scenarios.
- Performance-coaching and assessment methodology
- Dynamic-water rescue and risk management
- Leadership and decision-making under pressure
- Program design and mentoring of new instructors
Prerequisites: Paddle Canada Level 3 Skills and current Level 1 Instructor certification.
Outcome: Certification to teach and evaluate Level 2 Sea Kayak Skills courses.
4. Rolling Instructor Teach rolling safely in pool or calm-water settings
Paddle Canada Rolling Instructor certification specializes in teaching kayak rolling safely and effectively. You’ll learn biomechanics, progressive instruction, and confidence-building techniques for diverse learners.
- Teaching roll mechanics and body movement
- Safety spotting and progression sequencing
- Coaching adaptive and inclusive learning styles
Prerequisites: Paddle Canada Level 2 Skills and a consistent roll.
Outcome: Certification to teach Paddle Canada Rolling Clinics.
5. Why We’re the Best in Class in Canada National leaders in Paddle Canada instructor education
Kayak Ontario is home to multiple Paddle Canada Instructor Trainers recognized for professionalism, inclusivity, and leadership development. Our programs combine classroom learning, practical mentorship, and national-level certification pathways.
- Certified Paddle Canada Instructor Trainers (Basic–Level 3)
- Blended classroom + on-water learning for efficiency
- Safe-sport and trauma-informed teaching environment
- Career mentorship and progression from Basic to Instructor Trainer
Train with the instructors who train Canada’s instructors.
Start Your Instructor Journey
Join Canada’s most experienced Paddle Canada Instructor Trainers. Our classroom-based and blended programs combine leadership, skill, and community to help you succeed.
View Upcoming Instructor Courses →